The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo (CMZoo) is a leader in conservation, captive breeding, and animal care, with a mission to connect people with wildlife and wild places through experiences that inspire action. Located in Colorado Springs, CO, the zoo has a long history dating back to 1926, when it was founded by philanthropist Spencer Penrose.
Quarters for Conservation: Funding Frontline Conservation Efforts
One of the ways CMZoo supports conservation efforts is through its Quarters for Conservation (Q4C) program. Since 2008, this program has raised over $5 million to support frontline conservation partners and breed-and-release programs to protect and restore endangered species in the wild. Every visit to the zoo raises 75¢ for Q4C, and members contribute an additional $25,000 per year.
The Q4C program allows visitors to directly contribute to conservation projects that align with their interests. Guests can learn about these projects by visiting the Q4C kiosks located throughout the zoo and can choose to donate their spare change or use the quarter tokens they receive with each admission.
Member-Driven Conservation Funding
In addition to Q4C, CMZoo also supports specific conservation projects through member donations. In 2024, members will have the opportunity to vote on how to allocate $75,000 in conservation funds. The top-ranked projects include:
- Tracking flammulated owls in Colorado
- Supporting agroforestry to protect okapi habitat in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Helping build a new island home for orangutans in Borneo
By involving members in the decision-making process, CMZoo ensures that the conservation efforts it supports are aligned with the interests and priorities of its community.
Captive Breeding and Species Restoration
CMZoo is also actively involved in captive breeding and species restoration programs. The zoo is home to several endangered species, including the Amur leopard, black-footed ferret, and Wyoming toad. Through its breeding programs, CMZoo is working to increase the populations of these species and eventually reintroduce them into the wild.
One of the zoo’s most successful captive breeding programs is for the black-footed ferret. CMZoo has been a leader in this effort, working with partners to breed and release ferrets into the wild. As a result, the black-footed ferret population has increased from just a few dozen individuals in the 1980s to over 1,000 today.
Innovative Exhibits and Experiences
In addition to its conservation efforts, CMZoo is also known for its innovative exhibits and experiences. The zoo’s newest exhibit, the Encounter Africa experience, allows visitors to get up close and personal with African animals, including giraffes, zebras, and ostriches.
The zoo also offers a variety of educational programs and events, including behind-the-scenes tours, animal encounters, and conservation-themed activities. These experiences are designed to inspire visitors to take action to protect wildlife and wild places.
Conclusion
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is a shining example of how zoos can play a vital role in conservation efforts. Through its Quarters for Conservation program, member-driven funding, captive breeding and species restoration programs, and innovative exhibits and experiences, CMZoo is connecting people with wildlife and wild places in ways that inspire action and make a real difference for endangered species around the world.
References:
– Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. (n.d.). Welcome to Cheyenne Mountain Zoo – CMZoo. Retrieved from https://www.cmzoo.org/
– Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. (n.d.). About – CMZoo. Retrieved from https://www.cmzoo.org/about/
– Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. (n.d.). Protecting the Future Together – CMZoo. Retrieved from https://www.cmzoo.org/membership/protecting-the-future-together/
– Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. (n.d.). Conservation – CMZoo. Retrieved from https://www.cmzoo.org/conservation/
– KKTV. (2024, February 15). Cheyenne Mountain Zoo raises $5 million through Quarters for Conservation program. Retrieved from https://www.kktv.com/2024/02/15/cheyenne-mountain-zoo-raises-5-million-through-quarters-conservation-program/